Worcester courthouse officer charged in theft

A terminated part-time Auburn firefighter who works full time as a court officer at the Worcester courthouse has been charged with stealing $1,621 worth of gasoline by using a town credit card to fill his personal vehicles.

A Worcester District Court judge Thursday issued a summons to Keith A. Lempicki, 41, of 159 Pakachoag St., for a felony charge of larceny over $250, and 21 misdemeanor counts of improper use of a credit card under $250.

Mr. Lempicki, who joined the Fire Department in 2006, allegedly filled his tank and directed the clerk to charge the purchase to the Auburn Fire Department Shell credit card that was on file at the gas station, according to a statement of facts by Auburn police Sgt. Todd Lemon.

Reached by a reporter yesterday, Mr. Lempicki directed the phone call to his lawyer, John Goggins of Worcester.

“We’re very concerned with the nature of the allegations,” Mr. Goggins said. “My client has cooperated and will continue to cooperate, and we hope to resolve this matter as efficiently as possible.”